King James Version

What Does 2 Chronicles 12:7 Mean?

“And when the LORD saw that they humbled themselves, the word of the LORD came to Shemaiah, saying, They have humbled themselves; therefore I will not destroy them, but I will grant them some deliverance; and my wrath shall not be poured out upon Jerusalem by the hand of Shishak. some: or, a little while”

Context

Then came Shemaiah the prophet to Rehoboam, and to the princes of Judah, that were gathered together to Jerusalem because of Shishak, and said unto them, Thus saith the LORD, Ye have forsaken me, and therefore have I also left you in the hand of Shishak.

Whereupon the princes of Israel and the king humbled themselves; and they said, The LORD is righteous.

And when the LORD saw that they humbled themselves, the word of the LORD came to Shemaiah, saying, They have humbled themselves; therefore I will not destroy them, but I will grant them some deliverance; and my wrath shall not be poured out upon Jerusalem by the hand of Shishak. some: or, a little while

Nevertheless they shall be his servants; that they may know my service, and the service of the kingdoms of the countries.

So Shishak king of Egypt came up against Jerusalem, and took away the treasures of the house of the LORD, and the treasures of the king's house; he took all: he carried away also the shields of gold which Solomon had made.

Read full chapter →

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(7) **But I will grant them some deliverance.**—Rather, *and I will give them a few for a remnant.* (Comp. 2Chronicles 12:12, “that he would not destroy him altogether.”) For the phrase “to give a remnant,” see Ezra 9:13. The word rendered “few” is *kim‘at.* (Comp. 1Chronicles 16:19 : Isaiah 1:9.) The pointing *kim‘āt* is peculiar to this passage. **My wrath shall not be poured out.**—Or,* pour itself out, wreak itself.* The phrase denotes a judgment of extermination. (Comp. its use in 2Chronicles 34:25.) **By the hand of Shishak.**—The destruction of Jerusalem was reserved for the hand of Nebuchadnezzar.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Chronicles 12:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.